Planting Do’s & Don’ts

Why Plant Trees?

The right tree in the right place can provide:

• Wind protection
• Savings on heating and cooling costs
• Beauty
• Privacy
• Income
• Wildlife habitat
• Protection from wildfires
• Snow control
• Dust control

It’s important to know what trees will work in what space, and how to plant them so they will thrive and provide the benefits you want.

Do’s

• Contact us to help you plan
• Match your trees to your land
• Contact your local utility company
• Call ND One-Call (811) before you dig
• Locate trees away from overhead power lines
• Keep trees at least 50ft away from septic drain fields
• Plant trees where they will receive full sun for several hours a day
• Water trees
• Cultivate
• Apply herbicides
• Mulch
• Fence/stake trees
• Apply repellents
• Keep up on maintenance of the planting area and trees
• Consider the following:
  • Soil
  • Species
  • Orientation to area needing protection
  • Width and density of windbreak

Don’ts

• Don’t plant near grasses, weeds, or existing woody cover–the new trees will compete with existing trees for soil and nutrients
• Don’t ignore setback and easement restrictions
• Don’t plant large varieties of trees In small spaces or near structures
• Don’t choose a tree to plant based on how fast it grows
• Don’t overdo on fertilization and watering